Manchester United Crisis: 5 Major Reasons Michael Carrick’s Job Is Under Threat
Michael Carrick is under pressure at Manchester United after eight winless Premier League games. Discover the latest on his future and Pochettino links.
Manchester United are facing another major managerial crisis, with Michael Carrick’s future at Old Trafford increasingly uncertain following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 season. The former United midfielder is under intense pressure after his team slipped into the Premier League relegation zone. Their dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, 8 November, extended their winless league run to eight matches. United’s leadership is now reviewing the team’s performances during the international break, while reports suggest that senior executives are considering possible replacements.
Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as one of the leading names linked with the position, but Manchester United have not officially announced Carrick’s dismissal or confirmed a replacement. The Guardian+3
1. Manchester United’s results have placed Carrick under enormous pressure
The biggest problem facing Carrick is United’s poor league form. After 10 Premier League matches, United have collected just eight points and sit 18th in the table. Their only league victory so far came against Ipswich Town in August. Since then, the team have struggled to turn performances into victories, with defensive mistakes repeatedly costing them valuable points. The 4-4 draw against Aston Villa was particularly damaging because it extended their winless run to eight consecutive Premier League matches.
Although United showed determination by fighting back during the match, conceding four goals at home raised further questions about the team’s defensive organisation. According to Sky Sports, United have also conceded 30 goals across competitions this season, highlighting the scale of their defensive problems. For a club with ambitions of competing for major trophies, spending the international break inside the relegation zone represents a serious concern. The Guardian+2
2. Senior United executives are reviewing Carrick’s future
Manchester United’s senior leadership is using the international break to assess the situation. Director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada are central to the review, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe also involved in discussions about the club’s direction. The Guardian reported on 10 November that Wilcox and Berrada were expected to recommend that Ratcliffe dismiss Carrick.
However, Sky Sports reported that no final decision had been taken and that the club wanted to complete a full assessment before acting. These reports show that Carrick’s position is under serious threat, but they do not establish that he has already been sacked. Carrick also returned to Manchester United’s training ground on Tuesday, 10 November, as the club continued its review. The coming days could therefore prove decisive for the former midfielder’s future. The Guardian+3
3. Mauricio Pochettino is being linked with the Manchester United job
One of the biggest names emerging in the managerial discussion is Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine currently manages the United States men’s national team and previously coached Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain. His experience in the Premier League makes him an interesting potential candidate if United decide to change managers.
The Guardian reported that interest in a possible move to Old Trafford is mutual, although securing his services would not be straightforward. Pochettino signed a contract extension with the United States through 2030. Reports indicate that a release clause could cost approximately £7.5 million, with additional costs potentially involved if he brings members of his coaching staff.
However, there has been no official announcement that Manchester United have appointed him or reached an agreement with him. His international commitments also create a timing challenge, particularly with the next United fixture approaching. The Guardian+2
4. United are considering the bigger picture, not just one bad result
Carrick’s situation is complicated by the contrast between his previous success and the current campaign. He initially took charge in January 2026 after Ruben Amorim’s departure. His first period in charge brought a significant improvement, including victories over Manchester City and Arsenal. United eventually finished third in the Premier League and secured Champions League qualification. The club subsequently confirmed that Carrick had signed a contract running until 2028. That earlier success helped build expectations that United would continue progressing under his leadership. However, the current season has been very different.
Sky Sports reported that the club’s hierarchy believes the team have underperformed, while also questioning whether Carrick’s previous achievements were above what the squad could consistently deliver. The review is therefore about more than the latest draw. United must decide whether Carrick remains central to their longer-term plans or whether a different coach is needed to change the direction of the team. Manchester United+2
5. Liverpool clash could become a defining moment for Manchester United
Manchester United’s next Premier League fixture is one of the biggest matches in English football. They are scheduled to travel to Anfield to face Liverpool on Sunday, 22 November 2026, after the international break. The fixture could become a major moment in the club’s season, particularly if Carrick remains in charge. Liverpool away is a difficult assignment under normal circumstances. United will arrive with pressure surrounding their league position, defensive performances and managerial uncertainty.
If Carrick is still leading the team, the result and performance could influence the conversation around his future. However, if United decide to make a managerial change before the match, the new coach would have limited time to prepare for such a demanding fixture. The club must balance the urgency of improving results with the importance of making a carefully considered appointment. The Guardian+2
What happens next at Old Trafford?
Manchester United are entering an important period that could shape the direction of their season. Carrick still has a contract running until 2028, but the club’s latest review shows that his position is no longer secure. Pochettino is among the names being discussed, while other potential candidates have also been linked with the vacancy.
For United supporters, the immediate concern is getting the club away from the relegation zone and restoring consistency. The next announcement from Old Trafford could determine whether Carrick gets another opportunity to turn the season around or whether Manchester United begin another managerial chapter.